BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– Recycled products and innovative creations that reflected the promise of a greener future captured the attention of visitors at the 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF 2026), helping the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development win the hearts of the public and secure two prestigious awards.
The Ministry walked away with the Stand Excellence Award in the Government Ministries category and the Popular Stand Award, the latter determined through votes cast by visitors to the trade fair.
The double victory was announced during the Stand Excellence Awards and official closing ceremony held at the UNDP Sustainability Centre at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre in Manzini on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
In line with the EITF 2026 theme, “Unlocking Green Economy Opportunities,” the Ministry’s stand showcased a range of programmes and services alongside innovative products and materials made from recycled resources.
The exhibition demonstrated how recycling and innovation can create value from materials that might otherwise be discarded, while also promoting opportunities for youth development and community empowerment.
Speaking in an interview with Eswatini Positive News, Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini expressed gratitude to emaSwati for supporting the Ministry and voting for its stand.
“Thank you for visiting, engaging with our team and voting for us. Your support means everything,” said Dlamini.
The Minister said winning the Popular Stand Award was particularly meaningful because it reflected direct recognition and support from members of the public who interacted with the Ministry throughout the trade fair.
He said the Stand Excellence Award in the Government Ministries category was equally significant, recognising the Ministry’s efforts to present its services in an innovative and engaging manner.
“This recognises our commitment to showcasing quality service, innovation and excellence in representing the people of Eswatini,” he said.
Dlamini also thanked the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), fellow exhibitors and every visitor who contributed to the Ministry’s successful participation.
“To the EIPA team, fellow exhibitors and every single person who stopped by our stand, this achievement belongs to all of us,” he said.
The Minister said the double recognition would inspire the Ministry to continue improving its services and creating greater value for communities.
“We remain committed to serving emaSwati better and bringing more value to communities,” said Dlamini.
The awards formed part of the final-day programme of EITF 2026, recognising exhibitors who distinguished themselves through innovation, presentation, visitor engagement and service excellence.
For the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, the double victory was more than a celebration of two trophies. It was an endorsement from both the judges and the people — with recycled ideas, public engagement and a message of a greener future coming together to make its EITF 2026 exhibition a memorable success.
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